Internet Usage Rate by Country (% of Population) 2017

Discover the internet usage rate by country, showcasing the percentage of the population online. This statistic highlights digital accessibility and connectivity trends globally, emphasizing the importance of internet access in today's world.

210 data points•Updated 12/31/2025•World•International Telecommunication Union (ITU)•

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Rank
1	Bermuda	98.37 %
2	Iceland	98.255 %
3	Kuwait	98 %
4	Faroe Islands	97.582 %
5	Qatar	97.389 %
6	Aruba	97.17 %
7	Denmark	97.099 %
8	Bahrain	95.878 %
9	Brunei Darussalam	94.867 %
10	Canada	92.701 %
11	Japan	91.727 %
12	Andorra	91.568 %
13	China, Hong Kong SAR	89.416 %
14	Estonia	88.103 %
15	Austria	87.936 %
16	Belgium	87.68 %
17	Finland	87.469 %
18	Australia	86.545 %
19	Germany	84.394 %
20	Ireland	84.114 %
21	Kosovo	83.894 %
22	China, Macao SAR	83.174 %
23	Chile	82.328 %
24	Israel	81.581 %
25	Cayman Islands	81.068 %
26	Cyprus	80.743 %
27	Bahamas	80.6 %
28	Guam	80.506 %
29	France	80.503 %
30	Latvia	80.114 %
31	Azerbaijan	79 %
32	Czech Republic	78.719 %
33	Lebanon	78.181 %
34	British Virgin Islands	77.704 %
35	Hungary	76.751 %
36	Kazakhstan	76.427 %
37	Belarus	74.436 %
38	Argentina	74.295 %
39	French Polynesia	72.704 %
40	Barbados	72.3 %
41	Antigua and Barbuda	71.962 %
42	Costa Rica	71.582 %
43	Greece	69.893 %
44	Dominica	69.62 %
45	Greenland	69.483 %
46	Curaçao	68.127 %
47	Dominican Republic	67.571 %
48	Brazil	67.471 %
49	Croatia	67.096 %
50	Bosnia and Herzegovina	64.892 %
51	Armenia	64.745 %
52	Jordan	64.5 %
53	Iran	64.044 %
54	Bulgaria	63.41 %
55	Italy	63.077 %
56	Albania	62.4 %
57	Colombia	62.26 %
58	Georgia	59.706 %
59	Cabo Verde	57.162 %
60	Cuba	57.148 %
61	Ecuador	55.8 %
62	Djibouti	55.681 %
63	Jamaica	55.072 %
64	Bhutan	54.3 %
65	China	54.3 %
66	Grenada	54.2 %
67	Fiji	53.647 %
68	Gabon	51.605 %
69	Kyrgyzstan	50.8 %
70	Iraq	49.36 %
71	Belize	48.877 %
72	Botswana	47.859 %
73	Algeria	47.691 %
74	Egypt	44.95 %
75	Côte d'Ivoire	43.84 %
76	Bolivia	43.832 %
77	Guyana	42.7 %
78	Lesotho	39 %
79	Guatemala	37.9 %
80	Ghana	37.884 %
81	Eswatini	35.3 %
82	El Salvador	33.821 %
83	Cambodia	32.9 %
84	Indonesia	32.336 %
85	Honduras	31.736 %
86	Haiti	27.2 %
87	Equatorial Guinea	26.24 %
88	Angola	26 %
89	Laos	25.51 %
90	Kiribati	25.31 %
91	Cameroon	23.203 %
92	Gambia	22.5 %
93	Bangladesh	21.5 %
94	Benin	18.7 %
95	Guinea	18.7 %
96	India	18.2 %
97	Liberia	16.3 %
98	Ethiopia	15.6 %
99	Afghanistan	13.5 %
100	Congo	8.65 %
101	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	8.62 %
102	Comoros	8.478 %
103	Burkina Faso	7.79 %
104	Chad	6.4 %
105	Central African Republic	4 %
106	Eritrea	2.5 %
107	Gibraltar	NaN %
108	Kenya	17.827 %
109	Guinea-Bissau	14.8 %
110	Burundi	2.661 %
111	Libya	NaN %
112	Liechtenstein	99.547 %
113	Luxembourg	97.363 %
114	Monaco	97.053 %
115	Norway	96.358 %
116	Netherlands	93.197 %
117	New Zealand	87.7 %
118	New Caledonia	82.006 %
119	Malta	81.012 %
120	Oman	80.186 %
121	Malaysia	80.141 %
122	Lithuania	77.615 %
123	Russia	76.008 %
124	Poland	75.985 %
125	North Macedonia	74.517 %
126	Portugal	73.791 %
127	Montenegro	71.272 %
128	Puerto Rico	68.741 %
129	Saint Kitts and Nevis	67.8 %
130	Maldives	65 %
131	Romania	63.747 %
132	Nauru	62.385 %
133	Morocco	61.762 %
134	Paraguay	61.076 %
135	Panama	59.951 %
136	Mauritius	55.403 %
137	Mexico	53.032 %
138	Peru	50.45 %
139	Republic of Moldova	49.9 %
140	Philippines	41.6 %
141	Marshall Islands	38.701 %
142	Namibia	36.837 %
143	Micronesia (Fed. States of)	35.304 %
144	Nicaragua	30.4 %
145	Nigeria	25.9 %
146	Nepal	24.3 %
147	Mongolia	23.714 %
148	Myanmar	23.621 %
149	Mauritania	21.017 %
150	Mali	18.9 %
151	Rwanda	17.2 %
152	Pakistan	13.78 %
153	Papua New Guinea	11.209 %
154	Niger	10.224 %
155	Mozambique	7.796 %
156	Malawi	7 %
157	Madagascar	6.4 %
158	North Korea	NaN %
159	Palau	NaN %
160	South Korea	95.069 %
161	United Arab Emirates	94.82 %
162	Saudi Arabia	94.176 %
163	Sweden	93.006 %
164	United Kingdom	90.425 %
165	Switzerland	89.686 %
166	United States	87.275 %
167	Spain	84.602 %
168	Singapore	84.452 %
169	Slovakia	81.626 %
170	Slovenia	78.885 %
171	Trinidad and Tobago	70.6 %
172	Serbia	70.331 %
173	Uruguay	70.322 %
174	Turkey	64.685 %
175	United States Virgin Islands	64.378 %
176	State of Palestine	63.3 %
177	Seychelles	62.6 %
178	Venezuela	61.6 %
179	San Marino	60.182 %
180	Saint Lucia	59.16 %
181	Ukraine	58.89 %
182	Vietnam	58.14 %
183	South Africa	56.167 %
184	Tunisia	55.5 %
185	Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	53.7 %
186	Thailand	52.892 %
187	Suriname	48.945 %
188	Uzbekistan	48.7 %
189	Tonga	46.2 %
190	Samoa	39.4 %
191	Tuvalu	35.2 %
192	Syrian Arab Republic	32.7 %
193	Sao Tome and Principe	32.6 %
194	Vanuatu	30.8 %
195	Senegal	29.643 %
196	Yemen	26.718 %
197	Sri Lanka	25.1 %
198	Zimbabwe	24.4 %
199	Timor-Leste	24.2 %
200	Tajikistan	21.96 %
201	Turkmenistan	21.251 %
202	Sudan	18.6 %
203	Solomon Islands	15.1 %
204	Tanzania	14.463 %
205	Sierra Leone	13.237 %
206	Togo	12.36 %
207	Zambia	12.2 %
208	South Sudan	4.1 %
209	Somalia	2.004 %
210	Uganda	NaN %

↑Top 10 Countries

Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.

↓Bottom 10 Countries

Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.

Analysis & Context

The "Internet Usage Rate by Country (% of Population)" is a critical statistic that unveils the extent of digital accessibility and connectivity worldwide. In 2017, this metric highlighted the varying degrees of internet penetration across diverse regions, emphasizing the global drive towards digital inclusivity. As the internet becomes an indispensable tool for communication, education, and economic growth, understanding these patterns offers valuable insights into technological advancement and socio-economic development.

Technological Disparity and Digital Divide

The year 2017 witnessed striking disparities in internet usage rates across the globe. Liechtenstein led the world with a remarkable 99.55% of its population online, closely followed by Bermuda at 98.37% and Iceland at 98.25%. These countries exemplify how robust infrastructure and policy frameworks can maximize internet accessibility. Conversely, nations like Chad and Madagascar, both with an internet usage rate of just 6.4%, illustrate the challenges of limited technological infrastructure and high costs. This digital divide underscores the need for strategic investments in telecommunications and digital literacy to foster equitable access.

Regional Clustering of Internet Adoption

Analyzing the data reveals noticeable regional trends. European and affluent Middle Eastern countries dominate the list of top internet users, including Kuwait (98%) and Qatar (97.39%). These nations have capitalized on their wealth and technological investments to achieve near-universal internet access. In stark contrast, African and some Asian countries, such as Mozambique (7.8%) and Papua New Guinea (11.2%), trail significantly. The clustering of high and low internet usage countries reflects broader socio-economic conditions and suggests targeted interventions are necessary to bridge these gaps.

Economic Implications of Internet Access

The economic benefits of widespread internet access are profound, influencing everything from GDP growth to employment opportunities. Countries with high internet penetration rates, like Denmark (97.10%) and Monaco (97.05%), often experience enhanced economic performance due to increased productivity and innovation. In contrast, developing nations with low internet usage face economic stagnation as they miss out on the digital economy's opportunities. The correlation between internet access and economic vitality highlights the importance of integrating digital strategies into national development plans.

Year-on-Year Changes and Progress

2017 marked significant changes in internet usage across several countries. Notably, Iraq experienced a 148% surge, increasing its connectivity by 29.46 percentage points. Such leaps often result from improved infrastructure and government initiatives promoting digital access. Similarly, Djibouti witnessed an 80.8% increase, reflecting efforts to integrate into the global digital economy. Conversely, declines in countries like the Republic of Moldova (-21.10%) and Mexico (-6.51%) highlight potential setbacks due to economic challenges or policy shifts. Monitoring these trends is crucial for assessing progress and identifying areas needing intervention.

Future Projections and Challenges

The journey towards universal internet access continues to evolve amidst challenges and opportunities. As technology advances, the potential for unprecedented connectivity grows, promising transformative impacts on education, healthcare, and business. However, achieving this vision requires addressing infrastructural, financial, and regulatory hurdles, particularly in underserved regions. Collaborative efforts between governments, private sectors, and international organizations will be pivotal in ensuring that internet access becomes a universal right rather than a privilege.

In summary, the "Internet Usage Rate by Country (% of Population)" in 2017 provides a snapshot of the global digital landscape, revealing both achievements and areas needing attention. By leveraging this data, policymakers and stakeholders can craft strategies to enhance connectivity, thereby unlocking the vast potential of the digital world for all.

Insights by country

Niger

Niger ranked 192nd out of 210 countries in terms of internet usage rate in 2017, with only 10.2243% of its population having access to the internet. This low percentage reflects significant challenges in digital connectivity and infrastructure within the country.

Several factors contribute to this limited internet penetration, including high levels of poverty, inadequate telecommunications infrastructure, and a largely rural population where access to technology is minimal. Additionally, the high cost of internet services and devices further restricts access for the majority of the population.

In comparison, Niger's internet usage rate is substantially lower than the global average, which was approximately 54% in 2017. This disparity highlights the ongoing digital divide between developed and developing nations, where access to technology and information increasingly shapes economic and social opportunities.

Luxembourg

In 2017, Luxembourg achieved an impressive internet usage rate of 97.363%, ranking 7th out of 210 countries in terms of the percentage of its population using the internet. This high level of internet penetration is indicative of the country's advanced technological infrastructure and widespread access to digital services.

Several factors contribute to this remarkable statistic, including Luxembourg's status as a highly developed economy with significant investments in telecommunications and technology. The country's small population combined with its high GDP per capita facilitates extensive internet coverage and digital literacy initiatives.

Additionally, Luxembourg's strategic position in Europe and its multilingual population further promote internet usage, as residents often engage with online content in multiple languages. This digital connectivity is also reflected in the country's commitment to innovation and its efforts to foster a vibrant digital economy.

Maldives

In 2017, the Maldives ranked 82nd out of 210 countries in terms of internet usage, with an impressive 65% of its population accessing the internet. This statistic reflects a significant level of connectivity in a country that consists of numerous islands, where digital infrastructure plays a crucial role in bridging geographical divides.

The relatively high internet usage rate can be attributed to several factors, including the government’s investment in telecommunications infrastructure, the rise of mobile internet, and the increasing availability of affordable data plans. Additionally, the tourism sector has fostered a demand for internet access, as visitors expect connectivity during their stays.

In comparison to regional averages, the Maldives demonstrates a higher internet penetration rate than many neighboring countries, highlighting its continued progression towards a more digitally connected society. This trend is likely to influence economic development, education, and social interactions in the Maldives in the years to come.

Tajikistan

Tajikistan ranked 170th out of 210 countries in terms of internet usage rate in 2017, with an estimated 21.96% of the population having access to the internet. This relatively low percentage highlights the challenges the country faces in terms of digital connectivity and technological advancement.

The limited internet penetration in Tajikistan can be attributed to several factors, including geographical barriers, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of investment in technology. Additionally, the country's economic constraints and high levels of poverty impact the ability of many citizens to afford internet access.

Despite these challenges, Tajikistan has been making efforts to improve its telecommunications infrastructure, which could lead to increased internet usage in the future. For context, the global average internet usage rate around the same time was significantly higher, indicating a substantial gap that the country needs to address to enhance digital inclusion and economic development.

Palau

In 2017, Palau ranked 209 out of 210 countries in terms of internet usage rate, with a reported usage rate of null%. This extremely low figure indicates that a significant portion of the population lacked access to the internet, which is critical for communication, education, and economic activities in the modern world.

Several factors contribute to this statistic, including Palau's geographical isolation as an island nation, which can complicate the infrastructure needed for widespread internet connectivity. Additionally, the relatively small population size and economic constraints may limit investments in digital infrastructure.

Despite these challenges, efforts have been ongoing to improve internet access in Palau, reflecting a global trend toward increased digital connectivity. For context, many other small island nations have similarly struggled with internet access, highlighting the unique challenges faced by such countries in the digital age.

Malaysia

In 2017, Malaysia ranked 49th out of 210 countries in terms of internet usage rate, with an impressive 80.14% of its population having access to the internet. This statistic highlights the country's significant advancement in digital connectivity, reflecting its ongoing efforts to improve technological infrastructure and access.

The relatively high internet penetration rate in Malaysia can be attributed to several factors, including government initiatives aimed at enhancing broadband access, a growing smartphone market, and an increasing emphasis on digital education and e-commerce. Urbanization and the proliferation of social media platforms have also played a crucial role in encouraging internet usage among the populace.

Additionally, Malaysia's internet usage rate is indicative of broader trends in Southeast Asia, where digital engagement has been rapidly growing. As of 2017, the country was part of a dynamic region that has seen significant investments in technology and innovation, further driving the potential for economic growth and societal benefits through improved internet access.

Poland

In 2017, Poland ranked 60th out of 210 countries in terms of internet usage rate, with approximately 75.99% of its population having access to the internet. This statistic reflects a significant level of connectivity among the Polish population, indicative of the country's ongoing digital transformation and integration into the global information society.

The relatively high internet usage rate in Poland can be attributed to several factors, including an expanding telecommunications infrastructure, increased availability of affordable internet services, and a growing emphasis on digital literacy and online services. Moreover, urbanization has facilitated greater internet access, as urban areas typically exhibit higher connectivity rates compared to rural regions.

As of 2017, Poland's internet penetration is part of a broader trend in Central and Eastern Europe, where many countries have experienced rapid growth in internet access. This digital expansion has fostered economic development, improved access to information and services, and enhanced social connectivity among citizens.

Estonia

In 2017, Estonia ranked 25th out of 210 countries in terms of internet usage rate, with an impressive 88.1025% of its population utilizing the internet. This high percentage reflects Estonia's commitment to digital innovation and its early adoption of technology in governance and daily life.

The widespread availability of high-speed internet, combined with government initiatives promoting digital literacy and e-governance, has contributed significantly to this statistic. Estonia is renowned for its digital society, including the implementation of e-residency, which allows non-Estonians to start and manage businesses online.

Additionally, Estonia's robust infrastructure and emphasis on education have fostered a population that is adept at utilizing technology, further enhancing its internet penetration rates. The country is frequently cited as a global leader in digital transformation, indicating a strong correlation between technology access and overall societal development.

Eswatini

In 2017, Eswatini ranked 144th out of 210 countries in terms of internet usage, with an estimated 35.3% of its population having access to the internet. This statistic reflects the ongoing digital divide within the country, where access to technology and information remains limited for a significant portion of the populace.

The relatively low internet usage rate can be attributed to several factors, including infrastructure challenges, economic constraints, and limited digital literacy. Despite efforts to improve connectivity, many rural areas still face difficulties due to inadequate telecommunications infrastructure.

Additionally, as of 2017, Eswatini's internet penetration was lower than the global average, highlighting the need for further investment in technology and education to bridge the gap. In comparison, neighboring countries such as South Africa have significantly higher internet usage rates, indicating a regional disparity in access to digital resources.

Madagascar

In 2017, Madagascar ranked 200 out of 210 countries in terms of Internet usage, with a mere 6.4% of the population having access to the Internet. This low penetration rate reflects significant challenges in the country's digital infrastructure and economic development.

Several factors contribute to this limited Internet usage, including geographical barriers, with many rural areas lacking the necessary infrastructure for connectivity. Additionally, economic constraints limit access to technology and services, as a large portion of the population lives below the poverty line, making it difficult for individuals to afford Internet services.

Despite these challenges, Madagascar has been making progress in improving its telecommunications sector, and there is potential for growth as investments in infrastructure increase. As of 2021, global trends indicate that increasing access to mobile technology may further enhance Internet usage rates in the coming years.

Data Source

International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

ITU is the United Nations specialized agency for digital technologies (ICTs). The Organization is made up of a membership of 194 Member States and more than 1000 companies, universities and international and regional organizations. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and with regional offices on every continent, ITU is the oldest agency in the UN family – has been connecting people for over 160 years.

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Historical Data by Year

Explore Internet Usage Rate by Country (% of Population) data across different years. Compare trends and see how statistics have changed over time.

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